Investigation of Improving Measures in the Iranian Plastic Waste Management System to Determine Gaps and Formulate Future Strategies

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Environmental Management, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Department of Environment and Forest, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

3 Graduate Faculty of Environment, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

10.22059/poll.2025.387301.2705

Abstract

Effective plastic waste management is a critical challenge in achieving sustainable development. This study evaluates the gaps in Iran’s plastic waste management system through the lens of Environmentally Sound Management (ESM) principles, with a focus on enhancing its sustainability and alignment with international standards. The Basel Convention Toolkit was utilized as the primary framework to assess ESM components, including waste prevention, minimization, reuse, recycling, and energy recovery. Two customized questionnaires were developed, validated using the Delphi method (by participation of 10 experts), and tested for reliability with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.85 (ESM) and 0.9 (SWOT). The Green Productivity Methodology was applied to systematically identify gaps and formulate actionable strategies. Main causes of gaps were explored using Ishikawa diagrams, which revealed critical issues in regulatory frameworks, technological adoption, financial resources, and public awareness. Additionally, a tailored SWOT analysis evaluated internal and external factors affecting the waste management system, highlighting strengths (e.g., legislative frameworks), weaknesses (e.g., operational inefficiencies), opportunities (e.g., technological advancements), and threats (e.g., not integrating the formal and informal sectors of waste management). Based on the findings, 34 strategic recommendations were proposed, including the integration of formal and informal waste management sectors, promotion of advanced recycling technologies, establishment of supervisory structures, and implementation of awareness campaigns. These strategies aim to address the identified gaps, optimize the system’s performance, strengthen its resilience, and enhance its compliance with global sustainability standards. This study offers a comprehensive analytical framework and actionable insights that can serve as a model for improving plastic waste management systems in similar contexts.

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References

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Pollution
Volume 11, Issue 4
October 2025
Pages 1070-1085

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